2. Average 25 Minutes Per Game
Much like comparing Harrison Barnes‘ rookie season to his sophomore season, there’s a chance Len actually earns more minutes after being demoted from the starting lineup. Chandler will soak up the majority of the available minutes at center, but since Phoenix wants Len to be a long-term fixture, he’ll need to stay on the floor to continue his progress in this kind of crucial developmental year.
If Len is attempting three-pointers and spreading the floor with a midrange shot, he’ll be playable on the offensive end of the floor alongside Chandler, which could help bump up his minutes even in a bench role.
Hornacek said there will be scenarios where Len and Chandler play together. Even more likely in light of Len's work on his perimeter shot.
— Matt Petersen (@TheMattPetersen) July 10, 2015
But even if those lineups prove to be unplayable, Len could easily stay on the floor longer by simply staying healthy and avoiding early foul trouble.
Since Chandler’s been slightly injury-prone over the last few seasons, it’ll be important for Len to increase his own workload and make sure that the Suns aren’t riding either one of their big men into the ground. If something were to happen to Len or Chandler, the Suns would turn to Markieff Morris, Mirza Teletovic and Jon Leuer in small-ball lineups, which isn’t very encouraging for the team’s rebounding, defense or size.
Len got his first taste of playing starter’s minutes last season. Even with the impending move to bench duty, it’ll be important for Len to build on his durability and stamina, relieving Chandler of heavy minutes in the process.
Next: No. 1